Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties

If you’re looking for a cozy recipe that wraps comfort in flaky pastry, then look no further! These Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties are not just delicious; they are a delightful hug for your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe brings the warmth of home cooking to your table with minimal fuss. The combination of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and sweet onions is simply irresistible—and when encased in golden puff pastry, it’s pure magic!

Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or want to impress guests at a casual get-together, these pasties are sure to be a hit. They are easy to make and can even be prepped ahead of time, so you can bake them fresh when the craving strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these pasties ready to bake in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy filling encased in crispy pastry.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheese, potato, and onion creates a tasty filling that’s comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them warm for lunch or as a hearty snack any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You might already have many of them on hand!

For the Filling

• 1x 320g/11.3oz sheet of Puff Pastry (see notes)
• 150g/5oz Sharp/Mature Cheddar Cheese (grated)
• 1/4 cup / 60ml Heavy/Double Cream
• 1 large White Potato (diced into small cubes; approx 300g/10.5oz)
• 1 large Onion (grated on a box grater; approx 150g/5oz once grated)

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Butter
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (can sub English if you prefer that flavor)
• 1 tsp finely diced Fresh Parsley (not a deal-breaker if you don’t have this)
• 1 Egg (beaten for wash)
• Salt & Pepper (to taste)
• Butter or Oil (for frying potatoes)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal tastes.

• Add Extra Veggies: Mix in some chopped spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or some sautéed peppers to give your pasties a bit of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large pan over medium heat, fry the diced potatoes in a drizzle of oil or knob of butter until they are crisp on the outside and soft throughout—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes depending on how big your potato chunks are. It’s important to season them with salt and pepper while cooking to ensure they’re flavorful. Once they’re perfect, melt in 1 tablespoon of butter and add the grated onion. Fry everything together for another minute until it softens slightly. Transfer this mixture to a bowl and let it cool down for a few minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring all that goodness together! To your cooled potato mixture, add in the grated cheese, Dijon mustard, parsley if you’re using it, cream, along with another good pinch of salt and pepper. Give it all a good stir until every bit is coated—this filling is going to be absolutely scrumptious!

Step 3: Assemble Your Pasties

Next up is the fun part! Slice your puff pastry into four equal rectangles. Divide your filling into four portions and place each portion onto one side of each rectangle. Don’t forget to brush around the edges with egg wash—it helps seal everything together! Fold over the pastry and press down firmly with your fingers. For an extra touch, use a fork to crimp the edges, then tidy up with a knife if needed. Finally, slice a few steam holes on top so those delicious flavors can escape while baking.

Step 4: Bake Them Up!

Place your assembled pasties onto a greaseproof baking tray (or parchment paper works wonders too!) and give them another brush with egg wash for that lovely golden color. Bake them in an oven preheated to 200°C/390°F for about 15-20 minutes until they’re deep golden brown and super flaky. Keep an eye on them because puff pastry can go from perfect to burnt surprisingly fast!

Enjoy these delightful Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties fresh from the oven—they’re best enjoyed warm!

Pro Tips for Making Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties

Creating the perfect Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties is all about attention to detail! Here are some handy tips to ensure your pasties come out delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Maris Piper. They mash beautifully and provide a fluffy texture that complements the cheese and onion filling perfectly.
• Don’t skip cooling: Allowing your filling to cool before assembling helps prevent the pastry from becoming soggy. This ensures a flaky, crispy crust that holds up beautifully.
• Seal those edges well: Make sure to press down firmly on the edges of your pasties to create a tight seal. This prevents any of that delicious filling from leaking out during baking!
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor complexity. Each cheese brings its own unique taste that can elevate your pasties.
• Brush generously with egg wash: A thorough egg wash before baking not only gives your pasties a beautiful golden color but also helps achieve that irresistible crispy texture. Don’t be shy!

How to Serve Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties

These pasties are as delightful on their own as they are when paired with complementary sides. Here’s how you can present this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh chives: A sprinkle of chives adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the savory filling.
• Sour cream or crème fraîche: A dollop on the side creates a creamy contrast that balances the richness of the cheese and potato.
• Pickles or chutney: Tangy pickles or sweet chutney provide an excellent contrast, cutting through the richness while adding extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the pasties.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can add both color and nutrition to your plate.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and slight tang of coleslaw provide an enjoyable texture contrast while enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
• Potato Wedges: For those who can’t get enough potatoes, crispy baked wedges seasoned with herbs make for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with these pasties.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for lunch or a quick dinner, these pasties are easy to store and reheat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasties to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Before baking, assemble the pasties but do not brush with egg wash.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen pasties to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• If reheating from the fridge, preheat your oven to 180C/350F and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen pasties, bake from frozen at 200C/390F for around 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties.

Can I use different types of cheese for Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the taste slightly.

Are Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties suitable for freezing?

Yes! You can freeze these pasties before baking. Just ensure they are properly stored to maintain their freshness. They make for a convenient meal option later on!

How long do Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties take to cook?

Once assembled, they typically take about 15-20 minutes in the oven at 200C/390F. Keep an eye on them as puff pastry can brown quickly!

Can I add vegetables to my Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties?

Definitely! Adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your pasties. Just be sure to cook any additional veggies before adding them to the filling.

Final Thoughts

These Potato, Cheese and Onion Pasties are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly versatile and great for sharing with family or friends. I hope you enjoy making this comforting recipe as much as I do! Let your creativity shine by experimenting with different fillings or serving options. Happy cooking!